A guitarist from Florida Christian Nolen has captured global attention by playing guitar during brain surgery.
This unique event took place at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine.
It’s where Nolen’s musical skills were utilized to monitor his motor functions while removing a tumor.
Nolen’s journey began after a knock during a live show led to a loss of feeling on the left side of his body.
He was unable to raise his left arm above his waist, and his face began to drag.
After a medical evaluation, doctors diagnosed him with a glioma —a type of brain tumor.
The tumor was located in the right frontal lobe which controls movement and other cognitive abilities.
Facing the necessity of surgery, Nolen was presented with an unusual proposition.
The surgical team asked Nolen to play his guitar during the procedure to help ensure his motor skills remained intact.
Nolen underwent an awake craniotomy, a procedure where the patient is kept awake to allow surgeons to monitor brain functions in real-time.
He was put to sleep initially as his skull was opened. Afterward, he was awakened during the tumor removal process to play his guitar.
This allowed the surgical team to observe and protect his dexterity.
Despite the overwhelming nature of the situation, Nolen remained calm and performed songs by Deftones and System of a Down.
The surgical team monitored his movements closely, ensuring that no critical brain functions were compromised.
The surgery was a success, and Nolen was discharged the following day. He has since returned home and is once again playing the guitar.
Florida Man Plays Guitar While Having Brain Surgery
